Finance Director

Harper May is proud to partner with a leading manufacturing company as they seek an accomplished Finance Director to drive financial strategy and operational excellence. This is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic finance professional to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of a well-established and growing organisation.

About the Company: Our client is a key player in the manufacturing sector, specialising in the sales and service of engineered equipment and parts. With a strong European presence and a central headquarters, they are committed to innovation, efficiency, and excellence. This role offers the chance to work closely with senior leadership, ensuring financial integrity and driving strategic initiatives across multiple locations.

Role Overview: The Finance Director will oversee financial operations, working closely with the UK-based Regional Director and the HQ controlling team. This is a hybrid position that requires a balance of hands-on expertise and strategic oversight, ensuring compliance, efficiency, and continuous improvement across the group.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and mentor the finance team, ensuring compliance with financial reporting deadlines and regulatory requirements.
• Develop a deep understanding of financial reporting structures and general ledger systems, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
• Oversee monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes, supporting budgeting and forecasting activities.
• Work collaboratively with the HQ controlling team and the UK-based Regional Director to review financial performance and drive strategic decision-making.
• Conduct monthly reviews of financial results with key stakeholders and follow up on required actions.
• Prepare and present financial results to Regional MDs at monthly meetings.
• Manage the budget submission process, annual result reviews, and prepare presentations for the annual sales meeting with country MDs.
• Organise and lead annual Financial Controller meetings, bringing together European FCs to enhance financial practices and standards.
• Conduct regular compliance checks, internal audits, and detailed reviews of MD expenses to ensure financial integrity.
• Review overheads and staff costs annually to identify potential savings and operational efficiencies.
• Oversee stock and creditor management, driving improvements in liquidity across European entities.
• Ensure adherence to compliance standards across all European entities while respecting diverse languages, financial capabilities, and regulatory frameworks.

Qualifications & Skills:

• ACA/ACCA/CIMA Qualified Accountant with a proven track record in senior finance leadership.
• Strong experience in general industry, preferably within manufacturing or the sales and service of engineered equipment/parts.
• Audit and internal audit experience, with a deep understanding of compliance frameworks.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Nav BC.
• Ability to work with multinational teams across European business units in a hands-off yet results-driven manner.
• Open, reliable, and communicative, with the ability to build strong relationships across different teams and cultures.
• Strong analytical skills and a keen eye for detail, with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.